Hollywood Invitational · 4th Annual
Lights. Camera. Action.
Screenings · Awards · Q&A
Attendees submit short films through an online portal to be judged on creativity, technical execution, and artistic vision. The best work screens live — followed by an awards ceremony.
Our Hollywood Film Festival has been growing for the past 3 years, and this year we are opening it to the whole Invitational event. We are thrilled to see what you create!
Due Friday, June 19, 2026
San Diego Deadline July 1st
Round 1
From the films submitted, 3 will be selected by various faculty members and screened at the Invitational Welcome Party. At this screening, we will open the votes to the public — you, family, and friends — to find the winner.
Final Round
The film with the most votes will be announced and screened again at the Gala. The winner and 2 runners-up will be awarded cash prizes and other opportunities.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| File name | Title your film: First Name_Last Name_Film_CinemaNight2026 |
| Length | Film length is 2:30 max |
| Music | Pick your jam! Any song can be used |
| Content | Film an existing routine or create something totally new. As long as it has a vibe. |
| Credits | Make sure you include all credits within the film (videographer, additional help, production, editor, director, etc.) |
| Participants | The film can have any and all number of participants — solo, whole studio, and everything in between |
| Editing | Editing is allowed and encouraged |
| Locations | Filming can occur in one or multiple locations |
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| File name | Title your poster: First Name_Last Name_Your Movie Original Title2026 |
| Required elements | Include an original title, your name, music, and all credits |
| Format | This can be mixed media, an image, still from the film, etc. |
| # | Tip |
|---|---|
| 1 | Record in landscape orientation (horizontal, not vertical). |
| 2 | Fill the frame with your subject or follow the rule of thirds. |
| 3 | Use natural lighting. |
| 4 | Avoid backlit settings. |
| 5 | Edit your video to achieve a “wow” look. |
| 6 | Pace is important — remember to entertain the audience and make the video worth their time to watch. |
| 7 | If filming multiple angles, remember variety is good. Close-up, extreme close-up, super wide shots — have intention behind what you shoot and how you shoot it. |
| 8 | Shoot in 4K, not 1080 if you can. 24p or 30p frame rate will work better in low light, but 60p or 120p is fine if you’re going to do slow-motion effects. If not using slow motion, stick to 24 or 30. |
| 9 | Create your team so you can feel creative and supported! |
Now is the time to create — and be great.
The Invitational Film Festival is about showing creativity, directorial vision, and using a visual medium beyond dance alone. The goal is to engage dancers in a tangible form of creation — and really let them make their films their own.
Kent Boyd
Lights. Camera. Action.
